After visiting George Nakashima’s studio and workshops in New Hope PA, I decided to undertake my most challenging project to date; a Nakashima inspired walnut credenza. I purchased rough 8/4 walnut lumber and cut sections for the side and top, then ripping each down on my bandsaw and then gluing them up to form a continuous bookmatch on the sides and top. I hand cut dovetails on all four corners and created bookmatched sliding door panels as well. The casework sits on top of a small base with splayed legs.
The Rikon’s power and capacity are comparable to the other smaller models, but a few issues held it back. Because the chip bag hangs a bit loosely on the canister, it tends to slip off during changes. On the plus side, it’s the only small collector with a 5-in.-dia. intake, so if you discard the Y-junction with the 4-in. ports, and run a 5-in. hose closer to your machines, you’ll add efficiency.
Mullet Tools has devised a slick single-piece cyclone/collection bin that hooks directly to a vacuum, allowing the cyclone to follow along like an obedient puppy. The two units can be quickly separated for cleaning. The Mullet cyclone bin is translucent, which makes it possible to see the sawdust level at a glance. And its 5-in. clean-out opening with a clear polycarbonate hatch makes emptying the bin quick and easy.
While Diablo’s SandNet disks perform similarly to conventional paper abrasives in terms of material removal and surface prep (with some exceptions at the lower grits), they make keeping your work surface and work area clean much easier, thanks to the great dust collection possible with them.
With its graceful curves, cabriole legs, and ornamental back splat, a Queen Anne side chair is a bucket list build for many woodworkers. Dan Faia had a very specific Queen…
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Comments
I particulary like the match of the top and the sides out of the same boards. Beautiful!
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